Residents from across North Ayrshire are being urged to get behind the campaign to help restore the Waverley.

The historic vessel – the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world – is currently out of service and in need of a refit estimated to cost about £2.3million.

A fundraising campaign is under way to raise the money and it is hoped the refurbishment will be completed to see the Waverley back on the Firth of Clyde in time for Year of Coasts and Waters in 2020.

At a meeting of North Ayrshire Council, following a question from Councillor Ellen McMaster, the council acknowledged the importance of the campaign to restore the paddle steamer to its former glory.

Councillor Alex Gallagher, Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “We warmly welcome the fundraising efforts to bring the Waverley back into service.

“It is such an iconic feature in the West of Scotland and we wish the campaign every success.

“We look forward to seeing the Waverley back ‘doon the watter’ - hopefully as part of the celebrations for the Year of Coasts and Waters in 2020.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the Waverley campaign is asked to visit https://www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk/